Behavior of RC flat plate structure subjected to compartment fires

• Published in: Journal of structural fire engineering 2022-09, Vol.13 (4), p.558-574
• Main Authors: Abouleiwun, Khadejah Alameen, Elbakry, Hazem M.F., Diab, Muhammad Ahmed, El-Fitiany, S.F.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bending moments; Cement; Columns (structural); Concrete; Concrete slabs; Finite element analysis; Finite element method; Fire exposure; Flat plates; Heat conductivity; Mathematical models; Mechanical properties; Methods; Moisture content; Multistory buildings; Reinforced concrete; Seismic effects; Temperature; Thermal expansion; Three dimensional models; Wind effects; Yield stress
• ISSN: 2040-2317; 2040-2325
• DOI: 10.1108/JSFE-03-2021-0012

PurposeIn this study, the behavior of a multi-story flat plate structure during fire exposure is investigated using numerical simulations conducted with using ABAQUS software.Design/methodology/approachA three-dimensional finite element model is then carried out on the RC flat slab structure exposed to standard ISO-834 fire at different location arrangements. The model examines mid-span deflection, shear demand on the columns, bending moment and the membrane action of the floor slab.FindingsThe latter plays a main role to increase the capability and ductility of the slab at longer fire exposure to compensate the reduction in the flexural capacity. Also, shear demand in columns becomes bigger in cases of more than one surrounding slab exposed to fire at the same time.Originality/valueThis work focuses on the influence of the horizontal force on columns due to thermal expansion of slab which should be taken into account in the design of multistory multi-bay building considering it the same as the resulted horizontal force from the wind and seismic effect, the traveling fire and the restraint effect.